Specific conference sessions and speakers will have a tech theme, encompassing all angles of the industry including ship design, new onboard initiatives, and updates on investments in technology from cruise lines.

Andy Harmer, senior vice-president membership and UK & Ireland director, said: “Technology will be running as a sub-theme of the conference, alongside the main #GenerationCruise focus. There’s no denying that in 2018, and beyond, technology is a crucial part of our everyday lives, and this is mirrored in customers’ increasing demands for a seamless experience while on holiday.

“The cruise industry is often taking the lead in the introduction of new technology to enhance the holiday experience and is widely being rolled out by a number of cruise lines and across fleets. Sessions at the conference will look at how technology is impacting ship design and the experience on-board, plus how technology can be used to engage a new cruise customer. “

New initiatives include wearable technology, face recognition, the use of apps and robots; plus new technology around the industry’s ongoing environmental efforts.
Keynote speakers for the conference will be announced over the next few weeks.

The CLIA UK & Ireland Conference will feature a trade fair on 23 May, a full-day of conference and networking sessions plus gala dinner on 24 May. The conference will close on 25 May, onboard Princess Cruises’ Royal Princess, followed by the opportunity to look around the ship.

For further information visit cruiseexperts.org